Best compression leggings for POTS in Australia: what to look for

If you live with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), you have probably been told to "wear compression". What you are rarely told is which compression actually helps. A pair of fashion leggings, a pair of flight socks and a pair of medical-grade, waist-high POTS leggings all squeeze your legs, but they do very different jobs.

This guide explains what to look for in compression leggings for POTS in Australia, why waist-high abdominal compression matters, how to get the size right, and how to stay comfortable through an Australian summer. It is general information, not medical advice, so please talk to your GP, cardiologist or physio about your own treatment plan.

Why does compression help POTS?

When you stand up, gravity pulls blood down into the veins of your legs, pelvis and abdomen. In POTS, the body struggles to compensate, so less blood returns to the heart and the heart rate climbs to make up for it. That is what drives the racing heart, light-headedness, fatigue and brain fog many people feel when upright.

External compression gently squeezes those veins so less blood pools there. More blood returns to the heart, which can mean a lower heart rate and fewer symptoms when you are on your feet.

The research supports this. A 2021 randomised crossover study in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology tested compression in 30 adults with POTS during a 10-minute head-up tilt. Average heart rate was 109 beats per minute with no compression, 103 with lower-leg compression, 97 with abdominal and thigh compression, and 92 with full abdominal and leg compression. Symptoms improved in the same pattern. The authors concluded that abdominal and lower-body compression reduced heart rate and improved symptoms, and that the benefit came mainly from better blood return to the heart.

What should I look for in POTS compression leggings?

Use this checklist when you compare leggings for POTS.

1. Waist-high, abdominal compression

The study above found that compressing the abdomen and thighs made the biggest difference, and that lower-leg compression on its own helped the least. Look for leggings that are firmly compressive right up through the tummy, not just the calves. A high or extra-high waistband that stays in place matters, because a waistband that rolls down stops compressing the abdomen.

2. A firm, medical-grade compression level

Compression is measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg). Everyday activewear rarely states a level at all. For POTS, clinicians commonly recommend firm, medical-grade compression, often 20-30 mmHg or higher. Supacore POTS compression leggings deliver 25+ mmHg of graduated leg and abdominal compression.

3. Graduated compression

Graduated compression is firmest at the ankle and eases off towards the top of the leg, which helps push blood upwards rather than trapping it. Check that the garment is described as graduated.

4. Registered with the TGA

In Australia, medical compression garments can be registered with the Therapeutic Goods Administration. Supacore's CORETECH® garments are registered with the TGA (ARTG 372670), and you may be eligible for a private health fund rebate through your Extras cover.

5. Comfort you can live in

The best compression is the compression you actually wear. Look for seamless knitting (no seams digging in), breathable yarns, a soft waistband and a cut you are happy to wear out of the house. If you will wear them all day, comfort is not a luxury.

6. Pelvic and core support

Many people with POTS also live with hypermobility or pelvic instability. Every Supacore CORETECH® legging has a patented waistband with a sacroiliac (SI) belt knitted in, so you get pelvic and core support as well as compression.

Which Supacore leggings are made for POTS?

• POTS Medical Grade Compression Leggings: our core POTS legging with 25+ mmHg graduated leg and abdominal compression, also in Blush, Merlot and Midnight Blue.
• Meryl extra high waisted POTS leggings: a taller waistband for more abdominal coverage.
• POTS XTRA leggings: a reinforced waistband for anyone whose waistband tends to roll.
• 7/8 POTS leggings with pocket: a shorter length for warmer days, with a phone pocket.
• Mary and Clara shorts: abdominal and thigh compression for people who cannot tolerate full-length leggings in the heat.
• Men's POTS compression tights and the Carl legging: see our men's POTS range.

How do I get the right size?

Medical-grade compression only works if it fits firmly. Supacore compression is sized by height and weight, not by your usual clothing size. Use the women's size guide (or the men's size chart), and if you are between sizes, choose the smaller size. Leggings should feel firm and snug without digging in.

Firm leggings take a little technique to put on. Sit down, gather each leg like a stocking and roll it up from the foot, then ease the waistband up last. Pulling on the waistband first strains the fabric and makes it harder.

How do I stay comfortable in compression in the Australian heat?

• Choose seamless, breathable garments and lighter colours for summer.
• On very hot days, consider a 7/8 length or high-waisted compression shorts. The research suggests abdominal and thigh compression delivers much of the benefit.
• Keep up your fluids and salt as advised by your doctor, especially in the heat.
• Put your compression on before you get out of bed, when your legs are least swollen and symptoms are often worst.

How do I look after POTS compression leggings?

Machine wash cold on a gentle cycle, inside out, and line dry in the shade. Don't bleach, tumble dry, iron or use fabric softener, so the compression keeps working for longer. Many people buy two pairs so one can be washed while the other is worn.

Shipping, returns and help

Shipping is free within Australia and internationally on orders of A$199 and over. You can return unworn items with tags within 30 days, with free return shipping, or exchange your size for free. See shipping and returns. Not sure which style suits you? Call us on +61 468 072 885 or browse the full POTS compression collection.

Frequently asked questions

What compression level is best for POTS?

Most POTS clinicians recommend firm, medical-grade compression, commonly in the 20-30 mmHg range or higher, applied from the legs up to the waist. Supacore POTS leggings deliver 25+ mmHg graduated leg and abdominal compression. Your doctor can advise the level that suits you.

Do compression socks work for POTS?

Socks only compress the lower leg. In a 2021 randomised crossover study, lower-leg compression reduced heart rate the least; abdominal and thigh compression, and full abdominal and leg compression, gave the biggest reductions. That is why waist-high leggings or high-waisted shorts are usually preferred.

Can I wear POTS compression leggings all day?

Yes. Supacore POTS leggings are seamless and breathable and are designed for all-day wear at home, at work and when travelling. Many people put them on before getting out of bed, when symptoms are often worst.

What size POTS leggings should I buy?

Supacore compression is sized by height and weight, not your usual clothing size. Use the women's size guide, and if you are between sizes, choose the smaller size.

Can I claim POTS compression leggings on private health insurance?

CORETECH® garments are registered with the TGA (ARTG 372670). Many Australian private health funds offer a rebate under Extras cover when your treating practitioner completes our Health Fund Rebate Form. Check your level of cover with your fund.